Micro Lens Array Positioning for Lensless Imaging Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lensless imaging devices lack suitable properties and structures for their image sensors, which affect their imaging capabilities and application range, particularly in terms of angle of view and image quality.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a modulator to adjust light intensity based on a real pattern, combined with a micro lens array where the relative positional difference between micro lenses and pixels varies, allowing for improved light distribution and image processing methods like fringe scan and moire reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a lensless imaging device is used, then downsizing and low cost are achieved, but suitable properties and structures for the image sensor are not established, affecting imaging capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a non-uniform distribution of micro lenses across the image sensor, where the density and positioning of micro lenses are optimized for different regions. This allows each local area to have tailored optical properties suitable for its specific imaging requirements, thereby establishing suitable sensor properties without adding overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the focal lengths, positions, and densities of multiple micro lenses across the sensor array. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system establishes appropriate imaging characteristics for different regions and conditions, resolving the contradiction between simple device structure and reliable imaging capability.
2Ease of manufacture
If a standard image sensor is used in lensless imaging, then ease of manufacture is achieved, but angle of view and image quality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image sensor into multiple regions, each equipped with dedicated micro lenses having different optical parameters. This segmentation allows the sensor to handle multiple viewing angles and imaging conditions simultaneously, expanding the angle of view while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular sensor design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a single image sensor that can simultaneously perform multiple imaging functions through its array of micro lenses with varying properties. The sensor can capture images at different angles, depths, and resolutions using different micro lens groups, thereby achieving versatility without requiring multiple specialized sensors.
3Manufacturing precision
If micro lenses are uniformly positioned relative to pixels, then manufacturing precision is simplified, but light distribution and image quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry by deliberately positioning micro lenses in non-uniform, asymmetric patterns relative to the pixel array. This asymmetric arrangement optimizes light distribution across different regions of the sensor, improving image quality by reducing artifacts and enhancing contrast, while the positioning tolerances remain within standard manufacturing capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances the image sensor's properties, enabling a wider angle of view and improved image quality while reducing noise and shading issues, thus expanding the application range of lensless imaging devices.
Implementation Method 1
a modulator configured to modulate an intensity of incident light in accordance with a real pattern
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor configured to convert the modulated light into an electric signal and create a sensor image
Implementation Method 3
a micro lens array including a plurality of micro lenses arranged to correspond to a plurality of pixels of the image sensor
Implementation Method 4
the property having at least one point or more with a changing difference value of the difference amount between the adjacent pixels from a positive value to a negative value or from a negative value to a positive value
Data Source
AI summary
The imaging device includes: a modulator configured to modulate a light intensity in accordance with a real pattern; an image sensor configured to create a sensor image in accordance with the modulated light; and a micro lens array including a plurality of micro lenses arranged to correspond to a plurality of pixels of the image sensor. The imaging device has a distribution property of a relative positional difference amount between a center position of a light receiver of each pixel of the plurality of pixels and a center position of each micro lens of the plurality of micro lenses of the micro lens array in a plane of the image sensor. This property has at least one point or more with a changing difference value of the difference amount between the adjacent pixels from a positive value to a negative value or from a negative value to a positive value.